Electron Emission into Vacuum from Lead-Zirconate-Titanate Ferroelectric Ceramics Induced by Polarization Reversal

Abstract

Electron emission from the surface of the ferroelectric PZT plate induced by polarization reversal has been observed in vacuum by applying a very high field. This electron emission has been obtained even in low vacuum of less than 10 -1 Torr. It is possible to increase or decrease the amount of the emitted charge by applying a voltage to the additional grid. A maximum emission current of about 9 A/cm 2 has been obtained at the grid voltage of 135 V. This electron emission can be applied to an electron emitter in vacuum electronic devices such as microtriodes and flat panel displays.